Panasonic Energy has announced a partnership with the University of Kansas (KU) to develop electric vehicle (EV) battery technology and foster local talent. The collaboration aims to promote next-generation battery technologies through KU’s advanced energy and battery research lab.
“In the wake of the 2011 University Engineering Initiative Act, Kansas has been producing engineering graduates to meet industry demand, with KU playing a key role in this initiative,” KU stated. “This partnership aims to help promote the regional development of Kansas and achieve a sustainable society.”
Panasonic Energy is also constructing its second North American battery factory near KU in De Soto, Kansas. Upon completion, the De Soto factory is projected to be the largest battery manufacturing plant in the world, focusing on producing 2170 cells. This facility will leverage insights gained from Panasonic’s collaboration with Tesla at Giga Nevada.
Production at the De Soto plant is expected to begin by the end of March 2025, with an anticipated annual production capacity of approximately 30 GWh.
